2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia review

1. Powerful engine options

In a small luxury car like the 2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia, exciting engine options are to be expected. Each trim (except the Quadrifoglio) has a 2.0L four-cylinder turbocharged engine that generates 280 hp. This is plenty of pep, with 306 lb-ft of torque and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The top-spec Quadrifoglio trim ramps up that power with a 2.9L V6 engine that delivers a gigantic 505 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, making it an extremely sporty option that can also achieve zero to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds (according to the manufacturer, when new). We don't sell these models at CarMax currently, but you can research these similar available models: Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, and Lexus IS 350.

2. Attractive inside and out

The 2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia is undeniably stylish, with sweeping lines and bold color options. In fact, there are 14 exterior paint colors to choose from as standard, including multiple tones of silver and jewel brights like Misano Blue Metallic, Verde Visconti Metallic, and the iconic hot red Alfa Rosso. Inside the cabin, leather seats and other high-end materials on the dashboard and doors give this Italian car an edge of sophistication.

3. Switchback tamer

The 2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia has a switchback tamer, which means that the AWD system offers the same kind of performance as RWD, switching only to AWD when necessary. The standard AWD system (found on all but the Quadrifoglio trim) sends all the power to the rear axle and can automatically transfer up to 60% of the torque to the front axle when necessary. How does it know when this is called for? This sport sedan continually monitors the road to ensure the torque distribution is optimal. If you're looking for a car that's intuitive, the Alfa Romeo Giulia delivers.

4. Great handling

Alongside the switchback tamer, there are even more benefits to the handling of the 2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia. It's athletic, smooth, and quiet in the cabin, and it responds quickly to whatever the driver does. Steering is easy and responsive, with controlled body roll through the corners. The power of those engine options doesn't negatively affect the way this small luxury car performs at all—in fact, high speeds feel easy and natural in the Alfa Romeo Giulia. Sailing down the highway or even commuting through the city is a joy in this sport sedan.

5. Comfortable luxury car

It's not surprising that comfort is a priority in the 2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia. The seats are leather-trimmed as standard and highly adjustable, plus you can find heated front seats and a heated steering wheel in the available Cold Weather package. The Ti trim adds heated front seats as standard as well as heated rear seats with the Premium package. In the trunk, cargo space is 13 cu-ft—enough for a medium amount of luggage or a large volume of shopping bags.